By Madi Black and Courtney Russo – Staff Reporters 

Senior captain Declan Wywoda is excited for the upcoming 2024 Jonathan Law baseball season.

Wywoda will help lead the Lawmen in many ways this spring – both as a captain and as a pitcher. 

“I plan on being a good leader by holding players accountable and making sure that everyone is working hard to benefit the team,” Wywoda said. “I plan on holding myself accountable as a leader to be a good example for younger players and be someone they look up to not only as a captain but as a friend as well.”

Wywoda has been with the team for all four years of his high school career. He has been leading the team since he was a freshman in many different ways. 

“In high school baseball a pitcher can take on more than 1 role during the season – a starter, middle reliever or closer at the end of the game,” Head Coach Mr. Simler said. “Declan is a very good pitcher that can help us in all of those pitching roles throughout the season.”

Wywoda is not very vocal but leads the team in many other ways. Assistant Coach Mr. McPartland hopes that every player follows Wywoda’s example. 

“He’ll influence the team most through his ability to lead by example,” McPartland said. “Declan is one of our captains this year and we want our other guys to emulate what he does.”

Many players on the team are inspired to follow Wywoda’s work ethic. 

“Declan doesn’t fool around and gets the job done,” senior captain Hunter Hoxie said “He will keep everyone focused and encourage them to play better.”

The team is looking to make it to the state tournament this year after not making it last year. They hope Wywoda’s pitching and leadership will help get them there.

“Declan is a great leader, he’s a great communicator, works well with everybody, and leads by example,” senior captain Alex Bludevich said. “He shows up every day looking to get better and for everyone around him to get better.” 

Junior Christian Galligan agreed.

“Declan will never bring anyone down, no matter who it is, or what they did wrong,” Galligan said. “Declan makes sure everyone keeps their heads up which is a huge key for success.”

The team has already started conditioning in order to get ready for the season. Many players have been practicing on their own, hoping it will help the team out during the season. 

“The goal for the season is to first qualify for states and then to go win the state championship,” senior Tyler Nethercot said.